Discussion Groups / English Usage / May 2009

That used to be true, but not now.  In the digital camera age, point
and shoot cameras are what the industry calls "compact" cameras.  They
can be quite sophisticated and relatively expensive.  Prices range
from just under $100 to around $500.  The single feature that
identifies them is that you cannot add different lenses.  

Their oppo is the dslr (digital single-lens reflex) camera is a camera
body that accepts a number of different lenses.

The term "point and shoot snappers" is a derogatory term used to
describe the operator of the camera.  While it is usually directed at
the user of a compact camera, it's also directed at the owner of an
expensive dslr who leaves it on "automatic".  The operator doesn't
take the time to learn the settings or the modes that result in good
photography.